IB Physics Syllabus 2025 (SL & HL)

IB Physics is a two-level (SL/HL) course within the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme that develops conceptual understanding, experimental skills, and data analysis. It is ideal for students interested in STEM fields—engineering, natural sciences, medicine, and technology—who want rigorous conceptual grounding and lab experience.

SL covers the core syllabus with about 150 teaching hours and focuses on foundational concepts and practical work. HL covers the same core topics in greater depth, includes additional higher-level topics (AHL), and typically requires around 240 teaching hours. HL has more challenging and longer paper questions and more advanced problem solving.

The core topics are: Measurements & Uncertainties; Mechanics; Thermal Physics; Waves; Electricity & Magnetism; Circular Motion & Gravitation; Atomic, Nuclear & Particle Physics; and Energy Production.

Higher Level (AHL) topics include Wave Phenomena, Fields, Electromagnetic Induction, and Quantum & Nuclear Physics—these expand on core topics with greater mathematical and conceptual depth.

Students choose one option: Relativity, Engineering Physics, Imaging, or Astrophysics. Each option includes theory, applications, and option-specific exam questions.

The IA is an individual practical investigation that counts for 20% of the final grade. Students design an experiment, collect and analyze data, evaluate uncertainties, and present a structured report with conclusions and references.

External assessment includes three papers: Paper 1 (multiple choice), Paper 2 (structured questions; core material), and Paper 3 (data questions and option-related questions). The exact duration and weighting differ slightly between SL and HL.

Typical layout (subject to exam session changes):
SL: Paper 1 (MCQ), Paper 2 (structured), Paper 3 (data/option) + IA.
HL: Paper 1 (MCQ), Paper 2 (longer structured & extended response), Paper 3 (data/option with HL extension) + IA.
Check official IB documents each year for session-specific timings and mark distributions.

IA reports typically run between 6–12 pages depending on the complexity. Focus on clarity: aim for concise introduction, clear method, well-presented data/tables/graphs, thorough analysis including uncertainty propagation, and focused conclusion. Use appendices for raw data if allowed by your teacher.

A strong IA has: a focused research question, justified experimental design, good control of variables, accurate and precise data with uncertainty analysis, effective use of graphs and equations, logical interpretation linking back to theory, critical evaluation of limitations, and suggestions for improvement.

Examples:
• Measuring the damping constant in a viscous medium using a pendulum (SL).
• Investigating the dependence of coil turns on induced EMF for an AC generator (HL).
• Studying the diffraction pattern from a single slit and comparing measured fringe spacing with theory.
• Measuring the efficiency curve of a solar cell under different light intensities and angles.

Choose a question that is specific, measurable, and linked to syllabus topics. Prefer experiments where you can collect multiple reliable data points, control variables, and perform quantitative analysis with uncertainty estimates. Discuss feasibility with your teacher before committing.

Use standard propagation rules: for sums/differences, absolute uncertainties add; for products/quotients, relative (percentage) uncertainties add; for powers, multiply relative uncertainty by the power. For complex functions, use partial derivatives (general propagation formula) or Monte Carlo methods if advanced analysis is required.

Common errors: vague research questions, insufficient trials, poor control of variables, missing uncertainty calculations, overfitting data, failing to link results to theory, and weak evaluation of systematic errors.

HL uses more algebra and calculus-based reasoning than SL; expect integrals and derivatives to support reasoning in mechanics, fields, and quantum topics. Strong algebra fluency and basic calculus are recommended for HL students.

IB Physics does not demand advanced calculus for basic understanding, but HL topics may involve calculus-level reasoning. Knowing basic differentiation/integration helps with deriving formulas, working with rates (d/dt), and understanding motion and fields.

Practice quick reasoning, unit checks, dimensional analysis, and process-of-elimination techniques. Time management is key—practice full MCQ sections under timed conditions and learn to spot shortcuts (e.g., sign/limit checks).

Carefully read marks allocation—structure your answers accordingly. Show equations and substitution steps, include units, and briefly justify assumptions. Use clear diagrams where helpful. For extended responses, organize with short paragraphs (definition, working, conclusion).

For data questions: interpret graphs/tables, calculate uncertainties, and discuss experimental limitations. For option questions: review option-specific theory and practice applied problems. Use the data booklet where relevant and justify approximations.

Diagrams and consistent units are crucial. Diagrams clarify physical setups and can earn marks. Always include units when giving numerical answers; incorrect or missing units often lead to mark deductions.

Official IB past papers and markschemes are available to schools with IB subscriptions. Many teachers and school libraries provide copies. There are also reputable teacher resource sites and books that compile past-paper-style questions. Always cross-check with official syllabi for alignment.

Quality beats quantity. Aim for 6–10 well-chosen questions weekly: a mix of MCQs, structured problems, and at least one past paper-style question. For HL, increase to 10–15 including advanced option problems.

Create a study schedule that allocates extra weekly sessions for AHL topics, integrate HL practice questions alongside core topics, and ensure IA and core revision remain on track. Use concept-mapping to connect HL extensions to core principles.

Active recall, spaced repetition, solving past papers under timed conditions, redrafting model answers, using concept summaries, and peer teaching are effective. Practice IA-style data analysis regularly to avoid last-minute rushes.

Prioritize questions you can score quickly. For structured questions, write the core equation and substitution early. Don’t spend too long on a single part—move on and return if time allows. Practice under timed conditions frequently.

The IB provides a Physics Data Booklet with essential constants and some formulae. Learn how to quickly reference it and practice problems that require interpreting the booklet rather than memorization alone.

IB subjects are graded from 1 (lowest) to 7 (highest). The final grade depends on combined external exam marks and IA performance. Schools may have grade boundaries; aim for clarity, accuracy, and strong IA to maximize score.

Practicals assess experimental design, measurement techniques, uncertainty analysis, data handling (tables & graphs), interpretation of results, and the ability to critically evaluate methods and propose improvements.

Understand derivations conceptually; memorize key final forms where helpful. In IB, showing understanding and correct use of formulas with justified assumptions is more valuable than rote memorization.

Keep diagrams clear and labeled (forces, directions, axes). Use arrows for vectors, label distances and angles, and include a brief caption if necessary. A tidy diagram can clarify an answer and often secures marks.

Write the formula first, explain briefly (if needed), substitute values with units, show the calculation steps, and provide a boxed final answer with units. Indicate any approximations or assumptions.

Week 1–2: Core topic revision (Mechanics + Waves)
Week 3–4: Electricity & Magnetism + Thermal Physics
Week 5: Options + AHL topics review
Week 6: IA finalization & data analysis polishing
Week 7: Past papers timed practice (Paper 1 + Paper 2)
Week 8: Paper 3 practice, polish weak areas, rest before exam.

Use your problem-solving strength for structured IB questions, but slow down to explain reasoning and include experimental interpretation. For IA and Paper 3, focus on data analysis, uncertainties, and experimental limitations—areas not emphasized in JEE/NEET.

Popular choices: Oxford IB Diploma Physics, Pearson Baccalaureate Physics, and the IB Physics Course Companion. Use past papers, markschemes, and teacher-created resources. For video lessons, trusted channels and official IB training materials help.

Start IA early, set milestones (proposal, method, data collection, analysis, write-up). Use weekends for IA lab work and weekdays for topic revision. Keep a simple Gantt chart to track tasks and avoid last minute pressure.

Choose an option that aligns with your interests and available lab resources. If your school has equipment for imaging or astrophysics, those options become easier. Consider future university goals: Astrophysics if interested in astronomy, Engineering Physics for mechanical/engineering paths.

Make it focused and measurable: include independent and dependent variables, specify ranges/conditions, and ensure feasibility. Example: “How does the length of a steel wire affect the resonant frequency of a standing wave produced under constant tension?”

Repeatability increases confidence in results and helps estimate random uncertainty. Take multiple trials and calculate mean values and standard deviations where appropriate. Discuss random vs systematic errors in the evaluation section.

Label axes clearly with units, use appropriate scales, plot error bars where relevant, include a best-fit line or curve, and reference the graph in your analysis. Use software (Excel, Google Sheets) or neat hand-drawn graphs scanned at high quality.

Use propagation of uncertainty. For simple functions: add absolute uncertainties for additions/subtractions, add relative uncertainties for multiplications/divisions. For more complex functions, use partial derivative method (general propagation formula).

Typically, calculators are allowed for Papers 2 and 3 but not for Paper 1 (MCQ, no calculator). Check the current session regulations as rules can change.

Use better measuring instruments, increase sample size, reduce parallax and friction, control environmental factors (temperature, air currents), and improve the procedure to reduce random errors.

Discuss instrument calibration, biased measurement methods, environmental influences (temperature drift), and assumptions in the model. Suggest methods to detect and reduce these systematic effects.

Memorize key formulas and common constants, but practice using the IB data booklet effectively. Understand the derivation and applicable conditions for formulas rather than memorizing without context.

Study option theory thoroughly, practice past paper option questions, and relate option concepts to core ideas. For hands-on options like Imaging, practice interpretation of instrument outputs and image analysis techniques.

Examples: confusing speed and velocity, misinterpreting net force vs. individual forces, assuming energy is lost (instead of transferred), and neglecting vector directions in field problems. Learn to check limits and units to catch mistakes.

Plan the answer structure: brief introduction/definitions, derive or explain steps, include intermediate equations, interpret results, and give a concise conclusion. Use paragraphs for clarity and label any diagrams used.

Familiarize yourself with the layout and how constants are presented. Practice problems while referencing the booklet so looking up values becomes quick and does not waste time during the exam.

IA is fixed at 20% of your subject score. External exams make up the remaining 80%. Aim for a strong IA to secure the 20% and target consistent performance across exam papers to maximize overall grade.

Use a balanced timetable, include relaxation and sleep, practice mindfulness, do light exercise, and maintain a revision plan with realistic goals. Practice past papers so the exam format becomes familiar and less stressful.

Create one-page concept maps per topic with core formulas, key experiments, common pitfalls, and two example problems with solutions. Use flashcards for key definitions and units.

Organize data in tables, compute means and uncertainties, choose appropriate axes, plot error bars, and add a fit line where theoretical relationships exist. Label axes and include units on both axes.

Marschmes show what examiners expect. Use them to learn the language of marking, typical answer structure, and common approaches to awarding partial credit. Model answers help train concise, exam-focused writing.

Summarize key findings quantitatively, link results to the research question and theory, state whether results support hypotheses within uncertainties, and suggest improvements and extensions.

“The measured period T of the pendulum increased slightly with amplitude due to anharmonic effects. The plotted T² vs L data produced a linear fit with R² = 0.992. Uncertainties were calculated from repeated trials and instrument precision; propagation shows ±2% uncertainty in derived g.”

Briefly cite any theoretical formulas or experimental techniques taken from textbooks or papers. A short bibliography in a standard format (APA/Harvard) is sufficient—focus on primary textbooks and articles used to justify method or theory.

Statistical tools (mean, standard deviation, t-tests for comparison) can strengthen conclusions. Use basic descriptive statistics to quantify spread and uncertainty, and interpret significance where appropriate.

Include raw data in appendices or tables; show processed data (averages, corrected values) in the main body for clarity. Always document data processing steps and units.

Q: Describe the electric field on the axis of a uniformly charged ring.
Approach: Write expression for field due to ring by integrating charge elements or quote result, discuss direction along axis, analyze limiting behavior near center and far away, and mention units/assumptions.

Mechanics, Waves, Electricity & Magnetism, and Data Analysis/Uncertainty tend to be high-yield. Mastering these gives strong coverage for many exam questions.

Practice with imaging equipment if available, learn image formation equations, resolution limits, and interpret examples such as lens systems and medical imaging outputs. Understand error sources in imaging experiments.

Relate core concepts to technology/applications: e.g., Faraday’s law in generators, Doppler effect in medical ultrasound, energy production in power plants. Keep examples brief and directly linked to the question.

Simulations and data logging tools can enrich IA if used appropriately and with clear justification. Document software used, parameters, and show how simulated results complement physical experiments.

Work independently on your own IA. Discuss ideas with peers and teachers but ensure design, data collection, analysis, and write-up are your own. Acknowledge any help, but do not copy data or text from others.

Maintain dated entries, record aims, materials, methods, raw data, observations, and intermediate calculations. A well-kept notebook strengthens the reliability of IA results and helps during write-up.

Be ready to explain your research question, justify your method, explain error sources, and discuss how your results relate to theory. Teachers may ask about alternative approaches or improvements—prepare concise answers.

Discourage copying—each student should have their own research question, data, and analysis. If apparatus is shared, schedule separate trials and document individual measurements to ensure independent IA submissions.

Read examiner reports and markschemes to identify common pitfalls and understand what earns full marks. Use these insights to adapt your answer style and IA approach.

Keep algebra steps clear and compact. Use equations labelled (1),(2) etc., reference them, and explain steps in one short sentence when needed. Avoid long unannotated blocks of algebra without explanation.

Break the problem into known components, write down relevant laws, check units/dimensions, consider limiting cases, and attempt partial answers (showing reasoning) to gain partial credit. Stay calm and methodical.

1) State formula and assumptions. 2) Show substitution with units. 3) Provide numerical result in a box. 4) Interpret result in 1–2 sentences linking to physics concept.

Use concept-check quizzes, group discussions, and explain concepts aloud as if teaching. Try to answer “why” questions and connect concepts across topics (e.g., energy conservation applies in mechanics and thermal physics).

Do timed practice tests, analyze where time is lost (long algebra, reading diagrams), and practice targeted exercises to speed up troublesome steps. Time yourself section by section to build exam stamina.

Data analysis and practical interpretation typically feature in Paper 3 and account for a notable portion of HL and SL question sets—practical/data skills are central, especially for students aiming high.

Use clear images, label axes and units, and include typed equations if possible. For online IA drafts, provide original data files and screenshots of software outputs where relevant.

Universities recognize IB rigor. HL physics with high grades is especially valued for STEM programs. Use letters of recommendation and strong IA/project work to demonstrate research capacity for competitive applications.

Suggested: Official IB subject guides, Oxford IB Diploma Physics, Pearson Baccalaureate Physics, Kognity (if available), past papers from your school/exam bank, and reputable video channels for concept reinforcement.

Data-loggers increase precision and help collect large datasets. Document calibration, sampling rates, and data-processing steps. Discuss instrumental limitations and justify why digital tools improved the investigation.

Report instrument precision as instrumental uncertainty, combine with statistical uncertainties from repeated measurements using appropriate propagation rules, and reflect these in final results and error bars.

Provide guidance on feasible scopes, encourage original questions, scaffold with methodology templates, emphasize ethical considerations, and assess based on IB criteria focusing on personal engagement, exploration, analysis, and evaluation.

Organize by topic: summary notes, key formulas, 2 solved exemplar problems, 1 IA-related note, common mistakes, and past-paper extracts. Keep one-page quick reference sheets per topic for last-minute revision.

Assign topics to each member to prepare and teach, run timed question sessions, peer-review IA drafts for clarity (not content), and discuss markschemes to align answer styles with examiner expectations.

Hands-on practice in the lab, guided teacher demonstrations, stepwise protocols, and careful recording. Reflect on results and refine methods. Discuss how each technique relates to underlying theory.

Write original text, paraphrase literature, cite sources, and ensure data is your own. Schools use similarity checks; maintain lab notebooks and dated records as evidence of independent work.

Investigate error sources, check equipment/calibration, consider alternative models, and discuss how systematic or random errors might explain discrepancies. A well-reasoned evaluation can still earn marks.

Track performance across timed quizzes, note recurring errors, review markschemes for pattern of lost marks, and focus targeted practice on those subtopics. Use spaced repetition to close gaps.

Bring approved calculator, spare batteries, pens/pencils, ruler, geometry tools, ID, and a copy of your concise formula sheet if permitted. Arrive early, read instructions carefully, and allocate time per question.

Treat mocks as real tests: simulate exam conditions, time strictly, review markschemes, and identify weak areas. Use results to fine-tune last weeks of revision and adjust pacing strategies.

Quantum mechanics intros, special relativity deeper problems, modern experimental techniques, semiconductor physics, and astrophysical instrumentation are advanced but enriching topics for motivated students.

Start with definitions, show logical steps, use examples and units, avoid unnecessary jargon, and conclude by linking back to the question. Use figures to complement text, not replace explanations.

Log mistakes, categorize them (conceptual, arithmetic, careless, units), and create targeted exercises to address each category. Re-answer past questions correctly with explanations for each corrected step.

Set short-term goals, celebrate milestones, vary study modes (reading, videos, practicals), teach peers, and connect physics topics to real-world applications to sustain interest.

Start: define variables and state relevant laws. Middle: show clear step-by-step derivation and substitutions with units. End: final boxed answer, brief interpretation and mention of limitations/assumptions if requested.

IB provides guidance but not strict lab lists—teachers typically design labs aligned with syllabus goals (e.g., measuring g with pendulums, exploring Ohm’s law, studying diffraction patterns). Check your school’s lab program for specifics.

Concentrate on high-yield summaries, one timed past paper every two days, flashcards for quick facts, finalize IA edits, sleep well, and avoid learning major new topics in the last 48 hours.

Follow your school’s official process—discuss with your teacher first, check IB regulations for remarking, and understand there may be financial and time implications. Provide clear reasons and specific question references.

Use forums for concept clarification and study tips, but verify solutions against official sources. Avoid copying answers; use forums to deepen understanding and get alternative explanations.

Consider workload, interest, and university prerequisites. HL indicates stronger preparation for STEM degrees, but SL is adequate if you want a balanced IB load or focus on other HL subjects.

Review one-page summaries, formulas, common pitfalls, and IA checklist. Get a good night’s sleep, eat light, and avoid cramming dense new material that may increase anxiety.

Focus on concepts, practice past papers, keep IA authentic, and learn to communicate answers clearly. Consistency beats last-minute intensity—steady progress gives the best results.